Digital Photo Frame Buying Guide

A comprehensive digital photo frame guide that will give you all the information you need on how to buy a digital photo frame.

Getting Started

A great, creative way to show off your photos and memories is with a digital photo frame. Bring your favorite memories to life in stunning quality and clarity. Choose from different models and styles to fit your needs and create a montage of unforgettable memories with family and friends

Size

Depending on where you would like to place your new digital photo frame, will determine the size you should be looking for. Digital photo frames vary in sizes from 7 to 14 inches. A smaller frame would be a great choice to have on your desk at home or at work, while a larger sized digital photo frame is ideal for hanging on the wall. Remember, the bigger the frame, the higher the resolution you will want. Make sure you spend a little extra when getting a larger photo frame so the images look crisp and clear.

Features

Aspect Ratio

The aspect ratio is the ratio of the horizontal dimension of your picture to the vertical dimension. Most frames offer different aspect ratios. The most common are 4:3 for standard full screen or 16:9 for widescreen. Most digital cameras shoot in 4:3.

Contrast Ratio

Contrast ratio is the ratio between the white and black parts in an image. The larger the contrast ratio of a display device, the greater is the difference between the brightest whites and the darkest blacks that a screen can show.

If a screen ratio is 300:1, would imply that the maximum displayed black is 300 times darker than the white. For most digital picture frame screen sizes, a contrast ratio of about 300 to 400 times will offer excellent image quality.

Digital frames offer a range of storage capacities. Most come with internal memory that stores around 128MB (megabytes). This will typically hold about 30 photos. If you plan on storing entire albums you will want to make sure your frame has an expandable memory slot or a USB port. Expansion slots allow you to expand memory up to 8GB so you can store thousands of photos.

Speakers

Some digital photo frames include speakers. This allows you to set slideshows to play MP3 music in the background or experience sound if your frame is capable of video playback.

Some frames require a wall outlet, while some run on batteries. A frame that can use both power options is most practical because it gives you the freedom of placing the frame anywhere.

Wireless or Bluetooth Options

Certain digital photo frames include built-in Wi-Fi or Bluetooth. This allows you to transfer photos to your frame wirelessly from your computer or Bluetooth enabled phone.

Other Viewing Features

Digital frames offer a variety of personalized options. Some give you the option to display photos with special effects, transitions, or even the ability to display a clock or calendar.

HDMI Output

HDMI output-enabled frames allow you to view your photos on a high definition (HD) television.

Display Options

Digital photo frames can be displayed either on a table or shelf where they can be easily moved, or wall-mounted to be displayed as a gallery. Make sure your photo frame comes with mounting brackets if you plan on going this route.

Remote Control

Most picture frames come with a remote that enables you to easily scan through your photo collection.